If you’re searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe. It’s a beautifully simple yet flavorful meal where tender, juicy chicken breasts soak in zesty lemon, fragrant herbs, and a rich chicken broth, all paired perfectly with fluffy, bright rice. Each bite bursts with fresh herbs and citrus notes that make it both comforting and exciting, ideal for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe is in how straightforward and essential each ingredient is. From the fragrant garlic and bright lemon to the savory chicken broth and fresh herbs, every component plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color that come together effortlessly.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: These provide a lean, tender protein base that absorbs all the herb and lemon flavors beautifully.
- 1 cup long grain white rice: This type of rice cooks up fluffy and light, perfectly soaking up the lemon-infused broth.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken and sautéing the garlic, adding richness and a slight fruity note.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with warmth and depth of flavor.
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced: Both the zest and juice brighten the dish with a fresh, tangy kick.
- 2 cups chicken broth: This is the moistening liquid that cooks the rice and melds all the flavors together.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano: Adds an earthy, slightly peppery herbaceous tone that complements the lemon perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings subtle floral and minty notes that round out the herb profile.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every ingredient.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Sprinkled at the end to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Lemon slices and rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional): These elevate the presentation with visual appeal and aromatic hints.
How to Make Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning those chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme for a fragrant herb crust. Then heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear each breast until it turns golden brown on both sides and is cooked through—this usually takes about 5 to 6 minutes per side. The searing locks in juices and creates a beautiful caramelized layer, adding depth to every bite.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Toast the Rice
Once the chicken is perfectly seared and resting, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it quickly—just about 30 seconds is enough to release its aroma without burning it. Then stir in the rice and toast it for 1 to 2 minutes. This step gives the rice a delicate nuttiness that perfectly complements the bright lemon flavors.
Step 3: Add Broth and Lemon
Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth along with the zesty lemon juice and zest. Stir everything together to combine those fresh citrus and savory broth notes with the toasted rice. Bring the mixture up to a gentle simmer—the fragrant steam will promise a delicious meal ahead!
Step 4: Cook Chicken with Rice
Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them gently into the rice and broth. Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Allow the chicken and rice to cook together for about 18 to 20 minutes. This slow simmer not only cooks the rice perfectly but also lets the chicken absorb the lemony broth, resulting in a harmony of flavors that feels so satisfying and wholesome.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Herbs and Garnish
Once everything is cooked, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle fresh parsley generously over the top for a gorgeous burst of green and fresh flavor. Optionally, add bright lemon slices and fragrant rosemary sprigs to garnish, turning this simple dish into something truly special and inviting.
How to Serve Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A few fresh lemon slices and sprigs of rosemary don’t just look beautiful—they add a refreshing aroma and a visual zing that makes the dish pop on your table. Chopped parsley sprinkled last-minute invites a light, fresh taste that contrasts superbly with the rich, lemony chicken and fluffy rice.
Side Dishes
This Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe is a full meal on its own, but if you want to complement it, think vibrant steamed green beans or a crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or carrots also pair wonderfully, adding color and texture without overshadowing the star of the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re aiming to impress, serve this dish in rustic individual skillets or cast iron pans for a cozy, family-style experience. You can also plate the chicken sliced atop a bed of rice, drizzling pan juices over the top and finishing with finely chopped herbs and a squeeze of fresh lemon for brightness. It’s as lovely to look at as it is to eat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, any leftovers should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated. The rice will soak up more moisture, so you might want to add a splash of broth or water when reheating. Stored properly, it will stay fresh and flavorful for up to three days, making for easy next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in portion-sized containers. Make sure to cool the chicken and rice completely before sealing. Frozen Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe will keep well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice gently in a skillet or microwave. Adding a little extra broth or water helps restore moisture to the rice. Cover while reheating to keep the chicken tender and prevent drying out. A quick flourish of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice afterward will revive the bright flavors.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice can be a nutritious alternative, but keep in mind it requires more cooking time and liquid. It’s best to pre-cook the brown rice or adjust the broth amount and cooking time accordingly to ensure it softens fully without undercooking the chicken.
What if I don’t have dried herbs?
Fresh herbs can be used as substitutes, keeping in mind that fresh herbs are more delicate and less concentrated than dried. Use about three times the amount of fresh oregano and thyme, and add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their bright flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! This Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe holds up well in the fridge and can be portioned into meal prep containers. It reheats nicely and offers a balanced, satisfying meal throughout the week with minimal fuss.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. Just double-check your ingredients to avoid hidden gluten in broth or seasoning blends. The rest of the ingredients are naturally free from gluten.
How can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Feel free to toss in chopped vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach when you add the rice and broth. These add color, texture, and nutrition without complicating the cooking process. Just adjust the liquid slightly if needed and cook until veggies are tender.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe is truly a go-to for anyone who loves meals that feel both comforting and fresh, with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or whenever you want a dish bursting with vibrant flavors. Trust me, once you make it, the bright citrus, fragrant herbs, and tender chicken will keep you coming back for more.
Print
Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice recipe that’s perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection and simmered with aromatic herbs, fresh lemon, and fluffy rice, resulting in a comforting one-pan meal bursting with bright, zesty flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Rice and Sauce
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Garnish (optional)
- Lemon slices
- Rosemary sprigs
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried thyme to infuse the meat with herby flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear each side for 5 to 6 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Garlic and Rice: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it. Then add the long grain white rice and stir continuously to toast the rice for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing it to soak up all the flavorful bits from the pan.
- Add Liquids and Lemon: Pour in the chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer Chicken and Rice Together: Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, partially submerging them in the rice and broth mixture. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the dish for a pop of color and brightness. Optionally, garnish with lemon slices and rosemary sprigs for an elegant touch. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful one-pan meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer, you can use brown rice, but increase the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
- Make sure to keep the heat low and the skillet covered during simmering to ensure the rice cooks evenly and stays moist.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
